The struggle between engine manufacturers CFM International
and IAE is as keenly fought as that between Boeing and Airbus.
As with the airframe manufacturers, fuel efficiency is always a
key area of competition and now more than ever.

The two engine manufacturers make claim and counter claim,
but most airlines believe that IAE's V2500 can be more fuel
efficient on some routes. However, V2500 engines are more
complex, so maintenance costs are generally higher.

Whether the increased fuel price significantly alters the
balance in operating cost of the two engines is
contentious.

Both manufacturers contest orders as hard as Airbus and
Boeing – in fact, the two follow the aircraft makers
around the world. The latest fight was for the contract to
power Indian start-up Indigo's 100 A320 order. IAE won.

IAE says that the deal for 100 aircraft represents its
largest firm order and is worth $1.7 billion. Bruce
Ashby,...